Starks returns to Packers

Green Bay, WI (SportsNetwork.com) - The Green Bay Packers formally announced the re-signing of running back James Starks on Wednesday, with the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reporting the deal to be for two years.

Starks has spent his entire four-year career with the Packers, who selected the Buffalo product in the sixth round of the 2010 draft, and has compiled 1,427 rushing yards along with 45 receptions over 35 regular-season games.

The 28-year-old ranked second among Green Bay players with 493 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground -- all of which were 20 yards or more -- over 13 games last season. Starks' average of 5.54 yards per carry was the highest in the NFL among backs with 80 or more rush attempts in 2013.

Starks is expected to reprise his previous role as the primary backup to 2013 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Eddie Lacy.